Pocono News Section

An Apple a Day Keeps Economic Troubles Away?

An Apple a Day Keeps Economic Troubles Away? - Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 4:25PM EST

? Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Thursday, Mar 20, 2008 @04:25pm EST
EAST STROUDSBURG - Teresea Greene has slaved over hot pots of caramel for the last few weeks, filling her candy cases with all sorts of Easter goodies.

"We hand make a lot of the chocolates so it takes some time to make everything. So we've been working around the clock since Valentine's Day and Easter are so close together," said Greene.

She owns Greene-Barry's candy store in East Stroudsburg. She has to work extra hard because the slowing economy is melting her profits. She explained, "Even myself, I pulled out of some advertising because I just couldn't do it."

Greene isn't too worried though, thanks to regular customers like LIsa Steinmetz who said, "The economy isn't that great but that's not going to stop me from treating myself to something."

Greene added, "I think that people still look for that thing that keeps their spirits up."

And the shop has plenty of treats to lift those spirits, including specialty candy covered apples. Some get dipped in caramel, others in chocolate. Then there's a smooth candy coating, or some candy pieces. Some are even dressed like Easter Bunnies.

By working 'round the clock, Teresea tries to prove there can be a sweet spot in a souring economy.

The store is normally open from ten to nine on Saturdays but this weekend the owner says she will keep the doors open as long as customers keep coming in, even if that's all night long.